History and Legacy of ESA International

Epsilon Sigma Alpha (ESA) was chartered in 1929 in Jacksonville, Texas, with a visionary purpose: to prepare its members to meet the challenges of an ever-changing world.

Over 85 years later, ESA remains steadfast in this mission through dynamic programs in education, leadership, and service—programs that continue to empower members and support meaningful causes.

The organisation was founded by Adelia Prichard, then national president of the Business and Professional Women’s Clubs. ESA’s original initiative centred on intellectual enrichment through a study series titled The Writings of Mankind, designed to provide educational benefits to its members. This emphasis on learning evolved into ESA’s own publication, What to Read News, a magazine showcasing member contributions alongside writings from distinguished voices around the globe.

With the onset of World War II, ESA broadened its scope to include philanthropic and public service projects. Among its earliest initiatives were partnerships with the USO (United Service Organisations) and the American Red Cross. Post-war, ESA became one of the first organisations to support the March of Dimes, contributing to the Mother’s March—the first and largest coordinated philanthropic campaign to combat polio. ESA also expanded internationally, establishing chapters abroad, including a vibrant and enduring presence in Australia.

In 1972, ESA’s deepening commitment to service led to the adoption of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital as its first international service project. This was soon followed by a partnership with Easter Seals. Local ESA chapters also continue to support a variety of state and community-based charitable initiatives. ESA’s hands-on spirit of service is evident in programs like Hope for Heroes, supporting military personnel and their families, and Care Connection, created to assist ESA members and their loved ones in times of personal hardship.

ESA’s dedication to leadership and growth found new expression in 1988, with the formation of the first collegiate chapter at Ball State University. Since then, collegiate ESA has grown significantly, becoming a respected platform for leadership development and community service on university campuses across the nation.

In more recent years, ESA has embraced digital innovation by establishing a strong online presence—including Internet-based chapters—allowing members to stay connected and engaged no matter their location. Technology continues to expand opportunities for involvement, making ESA’s educational, service, and social programs more accessible than ever.

Through all seasons, ESA brings good people together to help them realise their potential and support each other through both triumphs and challenges. With a network of over 700 local and campus chapters and more than 10,000 members, ESA continues to build a better world through local, national, and international service

History of E.S.A. Australia

E.S.A. was introduced to Australia on 10th December, 1963, by Dorothy Banks (formerly Maslen). The inaugural meeting was held in Mr. Paul Comino’s Café in Childers, Queensland. Alpha Alpha Branch, Childers was chartered with 18 members, the charter president was Thora Calder.

By 1973 Queensland had nine branches with 186 members. In 1977, thirty-nine branches had been established with a membership of over 600 members, which included an interstate Branch at Lismore, New South Wales. This expansion brought about national status in Australia.

The first Queensland State Convention was held in Bundaberg in 1966, with the theme ‘E.S.A. – Riches are for Sharing’. The first State President was Jean Piaggio.

In 1975, the state project ‘Ride for Life’ was launched to raise money for Cancer Research. The marathon bicycle ride covered a distance of 1,200 miles, from Cairns to Brisbane.

In May 1978, the first E.S.A. Scholarship for cancer research was awarded to Miss Hilarie Heindorff, who furthered her studies in Canada and England.

ESA in Australia’s next milestone was the hosting of the ESA International Convention at the Gold Coast in 1981. This was the first time an International Convention had been held outside of the United States, with members from across the U.S. travelling to Queensland for the week-long convention.

The first men to join ESA Australia were Jim Provians and Bill Steentsma when, in 1982, the State President installed them as ‘Men of ESA’.

The ESA Art Union was established in 1982 and continues today, with proceeds distributed to various cancer projects throughout the state.

In 1983, the Redcliffe Branch started a Princess Quest, with 90% of the profits donated to the Leukaemia Foundation of Queensland. The Quest eventually became too large for ESA to manage and was handed over to the Leukaemia Foundation in 1994. When the Foundation’s accommodation centre at South Brisbane was opened, it was named ESA Village in recognition of ESA’s contribution.

Members in Australia celebrate E.S.A. Week in the second week of March to coincide with our founder Dorothy Banks’ birthday. It is a time to recognise and honour her founding of E.S.A. in Australia..